Statement from AFBC President Eyassu Wossen Berhanu on International Women’s Day – March 8, 2025

Empowering Women in Boxing: A Commitment to Fairness, Growth, and Excellence

Today, on International Women’s Day, we celebrate the achievements, resilience, and contributions of women across all sectors of society. In the world of boxing, women continue to break barriers, redefine excellence, and inspire future generations with their dedication, strength, and perseverance.

At the African Boxing Confederation (AFBC), we are committed to fostering an environment where female athletes, coaches, referees, and administrators receive the recognition, opportunities, and support they deserve. Boxing is not just a sport; it is a platform for empowerment, equality, and personal growth.

A fundamental principle of AFBC is fairness both inside and outside the ring. We believe that every boxer, regardless of gender, must have equal access to opportunities, transparent competition, and a system that upholds integrity at all levels. We are strengthening our efforts to ensure that female boxers receive equal training facilities, funding, and international exposure, allowing them to compete at the highest levels.

The growth of women’s boxing in Africa is one of our top priorities. Over the past years, we have seen remarkable progress, but we recognize that more needs to be done. AFBC will continue to support development programs, grassroots initiatives, and mentorship opportunities to nurture the next generation of female champions. Through collaboration with national federations, we are working to increase the number of female participants, improve coaching standards, and expand access to training camps and competitions.

Appreciation to IBA for Their Commitment to Women’s Boxing
We also take this opportunity to commend the International Boxing Association (IBA) for their outstanding efforts in supporting women’s boxing worldwide. Through their dedicated programs, global championships, training initiatives, and financial and material support for female athletes, IBA has played a crucial role in advancing the sport and creating more opportunities for women in boxing. Their investment in female athletes has not only improved the level of competition but has also empowered countless women to pursue their dreams in boxing.

This International Women’s Day is not just a celebration but also a call to action. We encourage all stakeholders governments, sports institutions, sponsors, and the boxing community to play an active role in advancing women’s boxing. True progress comes when we collectively invest in creating an inclusive and sustainable boxing ecosystem.

On behalf of AFBC, I extend my appreciation to all female boxers, coaches, referees, judges, and administrators who contribute to the sport every day. Your hard work and dedication inspire us all.

Let us continue to fight for fairness, empower the next generation, and ensure that boxing remains a sport where every woman has the opportunity to shine.

Happy International Women’s Day!
Eyassu Wossen Berhanu
President, African Boxing Confederation (AFBC)